Gather, Nourish, Thrive: Embracing Wholeness
A sense of renewal hangs in the air as I pen my thoughts. It’s time to reset our minds and make some changes. Recently, I visited the Biltmore Mansion in Asheville, NC. Walking through its grand halls and viewing beautifully set tables reminded me of Jesus’ words: In my Father’s house are many rooms… I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:2). The splendor of those majestic rooms, paired with the imagined laughter and nourishing meals shared there, stirred my spirit.
This glimpse of earthly beauty points us toward heavenly realities while calling us to cultivate meaningful connection, balanced living and good stewardship of our health and relationships. So, let’s reset.
The Table Connection
The Biltmore’s exquisite tables remind me of the importance of gathering with loved ones. Deep conversations and shared meals nourish our bodies and souls alike. In today’s fast-paced world, this kind of fellowship is often neglected. Through Alive Again, I emphasize how real, whole foods support health and create opportunities for connection.
Balance and Health
Prioritize balance in body, mind, and spirit:
Move: Get moving. Enjoy more fresh air and sunlight in nature - gifts from God that can refresh and restore.
Rest: Set aside time for Sabbath renewal—a time for God to refresh your soul.
Deeper Connection: Just as the Biltmore tables symbolize connection with others, they also remind me of our ultimate fellowship with Christ. My prayer is that we “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord” (2 Peter 3:18). As we seek Him first in every aspect of our lives, may our health, relationships, and daily rhythms align with His will.
Nourish the Body: One of the simplest and most powerful changes you can make is to eat more whole, real foods. Eating whole foods is not about following rigid rules or sacrificing flavor; it’s about reclaiming the joy of eating fresh food that makes you feel alive. The next time you sit down to a meal, remember what you eat doesn’t just fill your stomach, it fuels your entire being. A good diet is not just part of the wellness puzzle; it’s the glue that holds it all together. The closer we align our diets with what our bodies truly need, the better equipped we are to live vibrant, healthy lives. My recipe book, Alive Again, was born from this belief and shows how simple, natural ingredients can bring both nourishment and joy to the table.
May your reset begin with health, wholeness, and meaningful relationships with God, loved ones, and those around our dining tables. Let’s savor the gifts of good food, laughter, sunlight, and connection while keeping our eyes on the eternal home He has prepared for us.
Want to learn more about achieving a healthier lifestyle? Living Leré is a vibrant new YouTube channel dedicated to inspiring wellness through practical tips, simple recipes, and holistic guidance. Whether you want to improve your diet, enhance daily routines, or explore natural health, allow Living Leré to be your go-to source for making wellness an enjoyable journey. Learn more at www.aliveagainonline.com.
Creamy Avocado Dip
Ingredients:
2 ripe avocados
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, finely chopped)
Instructions:
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl or food processor.
Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and salt. If using cilantro, add it now.
Use a food processor or hand blender to blend until smooth and creamy. You can also mash and mix manually if you prefer a chunkier texture.
Adjust the seasoning or lime juice to your liking.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld together.
Garnish with fresh chives or parsley.
Tips from Lére:
This dip pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes, or radishes.
Whole Grain Crackers with seeds or made from ancient grains for added texture and flavor will taste great too.
Pita bread, naan bread or rice cakes. Believe it or not, apple slices are also delicious with this dip as the sweetness contrasts beautifully with the creamy dip.
Marinated Roast Vegetable Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
1 medium red onion cut into chunks
1 medium zucchini sliced into thick rounds
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup button mushrooms cleaned and trimmed
1 red or yellow eggplant cut into big pieces
Marinade:
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic Glaze:
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
Place the red onion, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and eggplant into a large bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
Thread the marinated vegetables onto the skewers, alternating for color and variety.
Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place vegetable skewers on a baking sheet. Roast for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Indoor or Outdoor Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high. Grill vegetable skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender. Can also be cooked on the outside grill.
To make the balsamic glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar and honey in a small pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
To serve, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro for an herby finish and enjoy as a vibrant appetizer or side dish!
Other vegetable options:
Bell Peppers: Add vibrant red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for extra sweetness and color.
Asparagus: Include asparagus spears for a unique texture and flavor.
Brussels Sprouts: halve and skewer small Brussels sprouts for a heartier bite.
Halloumi: Add cubes of halloumi or serve with a sprinkle of crumbled feta after grilling.
